Opening of synthetic turf hockey ground at Mandurah Hockey Stadium

18/4/98

Sport and Recreation Minister Norman Moore today opened the first stage of a $1.4 million community complex which promises to bring international hockey status for Mandurah and surrounding districts.

Speaking at the opening of the new synthetic turf hockey ground at the Mandurah Hockey Stadium, Mr Moore said that work on the pavilion and clubrooms was expected to start next August as part of the new multi-purpose centre.

He said that funding for the venture was an excellent example of shared commitment.

"Good governments - and good councils - help those who help themselves," Mr Moore said.

He said that a third of the cost had been raised by the hockey associations and the local community, with the Mandurah City Council and the State Government, through its Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund, contributing similar amounts.

Mr Moore said that the Balsam H2 Oz Polygrass surface, the first of its type in Western Australia, was the latest in synthetic technology and would be used for the Sydney 2000 Olympics hockey grounds.

He said the emphasis on junior hockey development in Mandurah - with junior membership starting with under-fives - had paid off, with a least one young player from the district being earmarked as a potential contender for future Olympics.

Mr Moore paid tribute to members of the Mandurah Hockey Stadium Committee, the Peel Hockey Association and the Mandurah and Districts Hockey Association for their fund-raising efforts.

"Sport in Western Australia relies heavily on the goodwill of volunteers," he said.

"That means mums and dads, friends and helpers and former stars giving something back to their sport.

"The Mandurah project is an inspiring example of what can be achieved through united community commitment."

Media contacts: Hartley Joynt, Minister's office, 08 9 321 1444

Bob Figg, Ministry of Sport and Recreation, 08 9 387 9749